How to Make Basic Barbecue Sauce

There's nothing like homemade barbecue sauce to use on grilled and oven-baked meat recipes. But why use store-bought sauces that are filled with artificial ingredients when you can make a delicious and healthier version at home? This simple recipe uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and can be made in just 30 minutes!

(Julia Mueller)

Things You'll Need

2 8-ounce cans tomato sauce

1/4 cup tomato paste

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard

1/4 cup molasses

1/4 cup honey

¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons liquid smoke (this can be found in the condiments aisle at your grocery store)

1-½ teaspoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon cayenne, optional

Large saucepan

Whisk or spoon

Large glass jar with a lid

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Step 1

Gather all of the ingredients for the sauce. It may seem like a lot, but you probably have almost everything on hand already!

Julia Mueller

Step 2

Add all of the ingredients to a large saucepan and whisk over medium heat.

Julia Mueller

Step 3

Bring sauce to a full (but controlled) boil, whisking continuously. Lower heat to a simmer and allow sauce to cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, until thickened.

Julia Mueller

Step 4

Remove sauce from heat and allow it to cool. As the sauce cools, it will thicken more.

Julia Mueller

Step 5

Pour cooled sauce into a large container with an air-tight lid (such as a jar). Secure the lid and refrigerate until ready to use. Store sauce in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.